Storytelling can shape our understanding of culture and history, as well as raise awareness about current events. In the case of Myanmar, where a military coup has crushed independent media, stories about the situation have become rarer – and all the more important.
The Kite Tales Foundation supports the work of a long-running website, published in English and Burmese languages, aimed at preserving the social history and cultural heritage of Myanmar, while promoting education and awareness. This growing digital archive features stories and videos from across the country that focus on untold histories, highlight marginalised voices and celebrate diversity. The website was named a Webby Award nominee in 2017.
The 2021 military coup and its aftermath has made our mission all the more important. Our Resistance Diaries project and fellowship scheme now gives a platform to journalists and artists, both inside Myanmar and those who have had to flee. These reporters share their experiences of the events since the military coup, which for them was both a news story and an existential threat.
These visually-engaging stories – shared on our website and through our social media networks on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram – help ensure the plight of Myanmar’s people is not forgotten at a time when many large media organisations are unable to report from the country and preoccupied with tragedies elsewhere. The project also contributes to maintaining the capacity of journalists who otherwise may not be able to continue any of their reporting work.
The role
- Our new Chair will help build on our success so far by providing leadership, enthusiasm, knowledge of the UK charity sector and high standards of governance.
- The role will involve helping to increase the visibility of The Kite Tales, identifying fundraising opportunities and developing the organisation in the coming years
- You do not necessarily need to be an expert on Myanmar or Southeast Asia, but experience in human rights, journalism or law in an international context would be desirable.
Our Board
The Kite Tales Trustees are drawn from diverse backgrounds with skills ranging from human rights, to journalism and business. They help to guide the work of the two directors, as well as to identify new funding and development opportunities.
How to apply
Applicants should submit a CV and a brief covering letter explaining how they could support our work and what skills and experience they would bring.